America kicks junk food for championship

By Glen Atwell
AFTER shedding 16 kilograms in seven weeks to compete in the 88-kilogram division at the World Kickboxing Federation (WKF) championships, world champion Daniel America knows all about endurance.
The 21-year-old runs a personal training studio in Damian Court, Dandenong, and says he has a lot to offer those seeking the service.
“It’s been open for about a year and a half and we do all sorts of personal training,” he said.
America said before the WKF championships he needed to lose 16 kilograms in 12 weeks to make weight, but did it in seven.
“I got the weight off quickly, so I had time to work on other things and get balanced,” he said.
And his secret?
“A very controlled diet, no processed foods, low carbohydrates and lots of protein,” he said.
But America admits dieting is not everything.
“I trained very hard, I had the motivation of competing in New Zealand in the age division I wanted to, so that was enough,” he said.
America has been involved in kickboxing since he was eight and has never had to diet before.
“I am normally in the heavyweight division, but made the cruiserweight division after losing the weight,” he said.
And with a knockout in the sixth round, America fulfilled his dream of becoming a world kickboxing champion.
“I was very nervous, but nervous is good,” he said.
“When I’m nervous I am alert and ready.
“Half a second can mean the difference between winning and losing.”
Despite his high level of fitness, a tough bout can take America weeks to get over.
“It’s been a month since that (WKF) fight, and my shins are still sore,” he said.
“The impact injuries can take a long time to heal.”
Luckily, the star kickboxer has a ‘friend’ that helps him heal.
“Ice is my best friend, without a doubt,” he laughed.
The City of Greater Dandenong honoured America on Monday night, with a certificate of recognition for his achievements.
But for America, his kickboxing dreams are far from realised.
“I aim to compete in a K1 event in Japan,” he said.
“That’s my ultimate goal.”